Are you ready for some outdoor fun now that spring has arrived? From scenic drives to thrilling adventures, Roanoke is full of options for exploring the great outdoors. Get the details on some of the top outdoor excursions in Roanoke so you can begin planning activities to take on this season.
Go Mountain Biking
If you’ve been itching to get your mountain bike out of storage for the season, there are lots of trails calling your name. Virginia’s Blue Ridge is known as the country’s “East Coast Mountain Biking Capital,” and many of the best trails are in Roanoke. For instance, you can hit the trails at Mill Mountain Park, Explore Park, and North Mountain.
Hike Through the Blue Ridge Mountains
Do you prefer navigating the terrain on foot? If so, you can take off on a hiking trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Appalachian Trail is ideal if you’re looking for a serious adventure. You can even go backpacking and sleep along the trail during your excursion. On the other hand, the Mill Mountain Star Trail is fantastic if you want to go on a hike and head home at the end of the day. The view from the overlook is mesmerizing, making it well worth the trip. These are just two of the countless hiking opportunities you’ll find in Roanoke and throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Paddle Down the Water
You can also take in some aquatic fun by paddling down one of the waterways in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. If you want to take it easy, you can take your kayak or stand-up paddleboard down Smith Mountain Lake or Carvins Cove Natural Reserve. Then, you can turn up the intensity at the Roanoke River Blueway or Jennings Creek. Now, if you’re really looking for a challenge, North Creek, Bottom Creek, and the Cascades Recreation Area deliver.
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Take a Scenic Drive
Your car can do the hard work when going on a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the main draw, with people around the country driving here to experience it for themselves. But you don’t have to stop there. Consider embarking on other routes as well, such as Skyline Drive and other iconic roadways.
This is a small snippet of all the possibilities in Roanoke and Virginia’s Blue Ridge. With so much to do, you can easily fill your days with outdoor experiences without doing the same thing twice.
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